Helpful hints to make the notarization process easy ~

Why does someone need to get a document notarized? When a document is notarized by a notary public in good standing with the Secretary of State’s office, the notarization assures the identity of the person or people who are signing the document. Not only does it confirm their identity, but ensures their willingness and awareness to sign the document, and by doing that, it prevents document fraud. Many types of documents require notarization. For example, powers of attorney, consent letters for minors, estate planning documents, VIN (Vehicle Identification) notices, marriage certificates, etc. The notary completes a notarial certificate which should include a number of elements, after examining a valid, non-expired state or federal photo ID (ie: drivers license, passport etc). In person notarizations are the most common, but RON notarizations are becoming more popular. RON stands for “Remote Online Notarization” in which the notary and the person or people being notarized are not physically present with each other. They can be located in different states or countries. The valid ID’s would be examined after the person or people being notarized upload their ID’s for verification, and then, once verified, the notary and the people being notarized would be on a video call (similar to Zoom) to complete the notarization. Witnesses (if required) can also participate. How do you know if witnesses are required for a notarized document? Check the document and/or your attorney. If witnesses are required, it’s also important to know if the notary can be used as a witness. Sometimes the answer is yes, and sometimes the answer is no. It’s determined by a number of factors including what type of document is being notarized. Sometimes documents require more than 1 witness. Witnesses also need to provide a valid, non-expired state or federal ID, and typically, witnesses can not be named in the document, or related to the person being notarized. There are multiple types of notarizations. A knowledgeable notary public should be able to provide explanations for each type. All notary public’s commission have an expiration date. Be sure that the notary’s expiration date on the document they notarize is current. If you’re unable to physically leave your home to get a document notarized, mobile notary services are available in which a notary will go to your home, or office to do the notarization. If you plan to get a document notarized by your bank, call ahead to ensure that a notary will be available, if you need to make an appointment, and let them know what type of document you have to ensure that they can notarize that kind of document. Florida Notary Public, LLC provides in person, mobile service, as well as RON services. Please reach out when you need assistance.